Hungary’s unique and extensive family support policies have been recognized as exemplary in the United States, according to Secretary of State for Families Zsófia Koncz at the Ministry of Culture and Innovation. Speaking on Hungary’s M1 news channel following her visit to Washington, she highlighted the positive reception of Hungary’s approach to family welfare.
During her visit, Koncz engaged in multiple bilateral discussions and attended the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women event. She observed that Hungary’s extensive family support measures were met with enthusiasm in every forum. ‘Many were pleased to see a country where family support policies are so comprehensive,’ she stated.
Koncz noted that Hungary’s tax exemption for mothers had been acknowledged by influential figures, including billionaire entrepreneur and Donald Trump’s advisor Elon Musk, who described it as ‘a great idea’. She also mentioned Vice President JD Vance’s long-standing appreciation for Hungary’s family policies.
Hungary’s system stands out for its flexibility, Koncz explained. Beneficiaries can choose how to access support, and the growing nursery network ensures that parents returning to work have childcare options. Since 2010, the number of nurseries in Hungary has doubled, and their availability has expanded to 3.5 times as many locations as 15 years ago. Thanks to these policies, the employment rate of mothers with young children in Hungary has risen from 66 per cent in 2010 to 80 per cent today.
Hungary’s family support measures have also contributed to demographic improvements. While many European countries have seen declining birth rates and turned to migration to address population shortfalls, Hungary has focused on strengthening families. Eurostat data confirms Hungary’s success, ranking its fertility rate as the third highest in the EU in 2023, behind France and Bulgaria. ‘We must always support families,’ Koncz emphasized.
Speaking on Kossuth Radio, she revealed that the Hungarian delegation held over 40 meetings in Washington. Interest was so high at their event on women’s mental well-being that some attendees had to sit on the floor. ‘We received enthusiastic applause. They had never seen anything like Hungary’s family support system, which includes over 30 measures. It is truly a global sensation,’ she remarked. Koncz also highlighted the Hungarian maternity nurse system, a 110-year-old national institution, as a unique feature of the country’s family support infrastructure.
Reflecting on Hungary’s progress, she noted that in 2010, the country had the lowest birth rate in the EU. Today, it ranks third, with a fertility rate of 1.55 children per woman, trailing only France and Bulgaria. ‘We are constantly looking for ways to expand the family support system. It is a flexible and evolving model, and we will continue to strengthen it,’ she concluded.
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